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Middle School JV Curriculum Guide
Congratulations! Moving up to Junior Varsity from the Novice division is quite the accomplishment, so pat yourself on the back. There are some key differences between the two divisions, from the kinds of people you’ll be getting judged by to the amount of evidence you’ll have to work with. You’ll also be up against tougher competition.
What’s Different in Junior Varsity?
You’ll get more arguments than in Novice. You’ll have multiple advantages and disadvantages, and you can read them all or pick between them. You may also receive a second affirmative, too!
You’ll get some more experienced judges in Junior Varsity. The newest judges get assigned to Novice debate, so you’re more likely to have an experienced judge, a coach, or a former debater in this division.
You’ll need to start comparing evidence in Junior Varsity. You’ll have to convince the judge why they should prefer your cards to your opponents’.
What’s the Same in Junior Varsity?
Debates still follow the same speech order and last for the same amount of time.
You’ll still have to debate four rounds – two affirmative, and two negative – at each debate tournament.
You’ll still use your evidence packet and tournament workbook.
You’ll still be reading, speaking, taking notes, and asking questions (or answering them).